Kent Mattox Prophecy For 5785 and 2025: Entering a Season of Abundance & Wealth Transfer

The Sound of Abundance

This head of the year carries a theme of “battling for the high places,” but I believe the Holy Spirit is highlighting a specific high place: the high place of abundance. Let me share a scripture with you:

“Then Elijah said to Ahab, ‘Go up, eat and drink, for there is a sound of abundance of rain.'” (1 Kings 18:41)

It's striking that Elijah, the same prophet who declared a drought, now proclaims an abundance of rain. We've been through a season of preparation, a time of tightening our belts, as Chuck prophesied. I remember that word clearly; it coincided with the Lord speaking to me personally about a new season of resourcing.

This time of limitation, of learning to make do, has been essential. Deuteronomy 8:16-18 reminds us that God led Israel through the wilderness to humble and test them for their ultimate good. He provided manna, just enough to sustain them.

I believe the Church has been in a similar wilderness, a time of testing and refining. But the greatest test is yet to come: the test of abundance. The Lord showed me this clearly. It's easy to stay faithful in lack; abundance brings its own set of challenges.

Emerging from the Wilderness

We are emerging from this wilderness season into a place of overflowing provision. Years ago, the Lord spoke to me about discipline. I initially misunderstood, thinking I was being corrected for past mistakes. But the Lord clarified:

“Discipline is not necessary for what you've done in the past that's wrong. Actually, discipline is for preparation for the future of what you're going to do.”

It's like resistance training; it prepares us for greater strength and endurance. We have been in a season of spiritual resistance training, preparing us for the abundance that is coming.

This abundance will manifest in many ways: increased influence, greater anointing and power, and overflowing resources to accomplish God's will. We may have felt limited, but God is bringing us out into a wide-open space of provision.

Breaking Free from Limitation

I want to share a personal testimony about how this shift has been unfolding in my own life. We recently completed a 14-year building project here at Wordalive International Outreach. It was a long and challenging journey, and we ended up with a significant amount of debt.

Rumors circulated that we had built outside of God's will. While I knew in my heart we had followed His leading, the financial burden weighed heavily on me. I cried out to the Lord, asking for clarity and direction. His response was profound:

“I put you in debt so that I could limit you and discipline you so that you only do what I want you to do. Because if you had plenty of resources in this season, you would do a lot of things that may appear good, but would not be my plan or my will.”

He was limiting me to keep me focused on His perfect plan. He reminded me of Joseph, whose feet were bound in fetters while the word of the Lord tried him. This season of limitation was a time of testing and refining.

The Lord then led me to Psalm 66:12:

“For you, O God, have tested us; you have refined us as silver is refined. You brought us into the net; you laid affliction on our backs; you have caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us out to a wealthy place.”

This verse resonated deeply. We have been tested and tried, but God is bringing us out into a place of abundance. He then gave me further revelation about the phrase “men riding over our heads.” He said, “That's debt. That's limited resources.”

But now, He is lifting our heads! Psalm 3 declares, “But you, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.” And Psalm 27:6 proclaims, “And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me.”

This is a season of elevation and victory! Deuteronomy 28:12 promises, “The Lord will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.”

Declaring Abundance

I believe we have crossed a threshold into a new era of abundance. It's time to shift our mindset from scarcity to overflowing provision. 2 Corinthians 9:8 assures us that God is able to make all grace abound toward us, that we, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.

This isn't just about having enough; it's about having more than enough to be a blessing to others. I see a wealth transfer coming, where the wealth of the wicked is released into the hands of the righteous. God will birth businesses and release creative ideas that will generate wealth and expand His Kingdom globally.

As we step into 5785, let's declare together that we will be the head and not the tail, above only and not beneath. Let's sow seeds of first fruits, believing for a harvest of abundance. Let's pray for debts to be canceled and for God to resource us beyond our wildest dreams.

The sound of abundance is filling the air. This is the time to ask for rain! Let's embrace this new season with faith and expectancy, knowing that God is ready to pour out His blessings upon us.

By Kent Mattox

Note: Kent Mattox didn't submit this article to our website. We saw a video of him and wanted to feature his confirming prophetic word for 5785 that the Lord gave Tony Francis, too. You can read it here: “Prophetic Word For Year 5785/2025: Witchcraft Control & Wealth Transfer” Read more

The Year of Wealth Transfer & God’s Glory: A Prophetic Word for 5785 By Prophet Tomi Arayomi

A New Year, A New Light

Rosh Hashanah 5785 marks not just a new year but a new era. This is not merely a year of exposure but a year of the consequences of light shining. The Lord is calling His Church to prepare for a coming wealth transfer and a move of His glory, unlike anything we have seen before.

The Difference Between Anointing and Glory

For years, the Church has operated under the anointing, ministering to the brokenhearted and the captive. But God is calling us to a higher dimension, the realm of His glory. The anointing addresses the consequences of the fall, providing healing and comfort. Glory, however, accesses God's creative power, His first office. It's time for the Church to rise and shine, to move beyond victimhood and into its divine nature.

Kings Will Come to You

As we step into the light of God's glory, a paradigm shift is taking place. No longer will we be sent out; instead, they will come to us. Nations will come to our light, and kings to the brightness of our dawn. This is a sign of respect, honor, and promotion in the spirit.

Living Under the Right Light

God has given us three dimensions of light: the light of His glory, the light of the sun, and the light of the moon. The sun and the moon were created for signs, seasons, and seconds, but the body of Christ is not meant to live by time constraints. We are meant to live in the realm of God's glory, where there is no time, only a movement towards eternity.

The Dangers of the Sun and Moon

The enemy has set up altars against the Church, using the sun and moon to strike God's people. These celestial bodies can be manipulated by those who practice witchcraft and sorcery, influencing human behavior and causing chaos. But God promises protection to those who dwell in His secret place.

Breaking Free from Lunar and Solar Influence

Many of us are living under the influence of the sun and moon, subject to time and chance. Like Solomon, we may accumulate wealth and wisdom but still find ourselves in a state of vexation and anxiety. It's time to break free from these limitations and step into the realm of God's glory, where we can operate outside of regulated seasons and times.

Joseph's Covenant of Wealth

Joseph provides an example of someone who operated in the realm of glory. He had a dream where the sun, moon, and stars bowed down to him, signifying his dominion over time and seasons. God established a Rosh Hashanah covenant with Joseph, which led to his economic prosperity and leadership over the nation.

Joshua's Command Over Time

Joshua also demonstrated authority over the celestial bodies when he held the sun and moon in their place until he had completed a battle. This is a picture of the power that God wants to give His Church in this new season. We will move outside of signs, seasons, and seconds, operating in a realm where we can break the laws of time and nature.

A Quantum Leap into Glory

The realm of God's glory is a quantum leap that allows us to circumvent the laws of time, nature, and physics. We can accelerate our progress and achieve things that would normally take years of study and effort. This is the realm where miracles happen, where the impossible becomes possible.

Conclusion

This Rosh Hashanah, let us choose to live under the light of God's glory. Let us break free from the limitations of the sun and moon and step into our divine destiny. The Lord is releasing His glory upon the earth, and those who are prepared will experience a wealth transfer and a move of His Spirit like never before.

By Prophet Tomi Arayomi

Note: Tomi Arayomi didn't submit this article to our website. We saw a video of him and wanted to feature his confirming prophetic word for 5785 that the Lord gave Tony Francis, too. You can read it here: “Prophetic Word For Year 5785/2025: Witchcraft Control & Wealth Transfer”

The Gospel in it’s simplicity

The call to spread the gospel is a fundamental responsibility of every Christian. The Apostle Paul poignantly raises critical questions in Romans 10:14-15: *“How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?”* These inquiries emphasize the urgency of our mission. The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19, commands us to go and make disciples of all nations, highlighting that sharing the gospel is not merely an option but a divine mandate we must obey. Yet, in today’s world, we encounter a troubling trend where various gospels proliferate, often overshadowing the true message of redemption that Christ preached.

In our contemporary context, many individuals present their own versions of the gospel, often focusing on prosperity, material possessions, and fulfilling the desires of the masses. This so-called prosperity gospel diverts attention from the core message of Christ and creates a distorted view of salvation. The urgency to understand the true gospel has never been more pressing, as we must return to the foundational truths that Christ preached to both the Jews and Gentiles—truths that emphasize the necessity of repentance and redemption.

To present the gospel simply, we must first acknowledge the fundamental problem of sin, which disrupted the perfect relationship between humanity and God. From the moment Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden, as recorded in Genesis, sin entered the world, leaving humanity in a state of depravity. This separation from God highlights that man, inherently sinful, cannot save himself. Romans 3:23 states, *“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”* underscoring our collective need for salvation. The reality is stark: without divine intervention, humanity faces eternal condemnation and the wrath of God.

Yet, amidst this dire situation, we find the profound love and mercy of God. Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us that *“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”* God, in His justice and mercy, does not abandon us in our sin but actively seeks to reconcile us to Himself. This reconciliation came at a tremendous cost: the sacrifice of His only Son, Jesus Christ. As Paul explains in Romans 5:8, *“But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”* Through this act of unparalleled love, our transgressions were laid upon Christ, who bore the punishment we deserved.

In this divine exchange, God provided a means for humanity to be justified and made righteous. The blood of Jesus washed away our sins, restoring the broken relationship between God and man. Through faith in Christ, we receive forgiveness and a renewed standing before God. This restoration emphasizes that God invites us to respond with urgency; we must acknowledge our sinfulness and place our faith in Jesus, believing in His resurrection. Romans 10:9 states, *“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”*

In conclusion, presenting the gospel in its simplicity is a call to communicate the profound truths of sin, redemption, and reconciliation. It challenges us to strip away the distractions of modern interpretations and return to the heart of Christ’s message. As we embrace the Great Commission, let us not be swayed by the myriad of gospels that seek to dilute the truth but instead proclaim the authentic gospel of redemption. This is our sacred calling: to share the good news of Jesus Christ with a world desperately in need of hope and salvation. Let us remain faithful to our mission, trusting that through our obedience, many will hear and respond to the life-changing message of the gospel.

By Wilson Loidimu Lenantare
Karatina, Nyeri

Ring of Fire Eclipse on the Jewish New Year 5785: A Prophetic Sign?

The information in this article is based on Perry Gaspard's teachings. Enjoy! 

On October 2nd, 2024, a ‘ring of fire' solar eclipse will grace the remote Pacific Ocean, aligning perfectly with the sunset in Jerusalem as trumpets herald the Jewish New Year, 5785. This celestial event unfolds above the geologically active ‘Pacific Ring of Fire', where 75% of Earth's active volcanoes and 90% of earthquakes occur, hinting at an impending transformation in both physical and spiritual realms.

This is no ordinary fire; it's the supernatural “Esh” (Aleph-Shin-Aleph), the Hebrew word for ‘fire'. The first letter, Aleph, signifies ‘the beginning', while Shin represents ‘fire' and ‘change'. It is the primordial fire, emanating from God, and a harbinger of profound awe and transformation. It embodies the baptism of the Holy Spirit, a complete immersion in the divine fire that purges all impurities, leaving only the resurrected ‘you', yearning for God's presence.

Biblical narratives abound with instances of fire accompanying divine revelations. Abraham's covenant with God was marked by a miraculous torch of fire, etching the symbol of eternity – Olam. Moses encountered the burning bush, a conduit for God's voice, and witnessed the awe-inspiring descent of the Lord upon Mount Sinai amidst fire and thunder. The glory of the Lord was described as “like devouring fire” (Exodus 24), the Hebrew “kof-Aleph-Shin” representing the ‘unlimited first fire' of God's blessing. These encounters with divine fire left an indelible mark on those who witnessed it.

Today's message resonates: it's a season to ascend, to release earthly attachments, and embrace this Holy Fire for protection in the challenging times ahead. Just as Elisha witnessed angelic hosts in chariots of fire surrounding him, we too must awaken to this heavenly reality and cast away fear.

The forthcoming eclipse, an astronomical spectacle, carries a profound message. It passes over Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, home to the enigmatic ‘moai', or ‘walking statues', believed to contain the spirits of ancestral leaders, possibly even remnants of the Nephilim, a giant race born of fallen angels. Some of these moai tower over 30 feet tall and weigh over 100 tons, potentially representing these giants. This suggests divine judgment upon rebellious angels and their offspring, the evil spirits that plague our world.

While this judgment may seem distant, it underscores the fact that God's actions often transcend human comprehension. The eclipse, blocking out 87% of the sun's light, will be visible over a sparsely populated region. This suggests that some of the events in these last days are not solely directed at human beings but also at the principalities and powers in heavenly places. The repercussions of divine intervention in the heavenly realm will manifest as world-altering events.

Isaiah prophesied this judgment upon rebellious nations and their ruling celestial entities. Both will face God's wrath in these last days. As Christ reigns supreme, ushering in a new heavenly reality, our lives must reflect this transformation.

The Feast of Rosh Hashanah embodies this shift. It's a time to cease ‘business as usual', offering sacrifices and surrendering to God's refining fire – the ‘Esh'. It's a chance for a fresh start, marked by the acceptance of offerings yielded to the divine presence. The numerical value of the Hebrew letter ‘Hey' is 5, signifying the year we are stepping into. It represents revelation, awe, and the unveiling of aspects of our lives ready for surrender to God. Leviticus 23 instructs us to offer an “offering made by fire unto the Lord”, or “Isha”, during this time. The Aleph-Shin in “Isha” represents fire, and the Hey represents the revelation and awe of the new year.

The early Church experienced this transformative fire, symbolized by the rushing wind and tongues of fire, empowering them with the Holy Spirit. This is our new reality, attainable through complete surrender to God's presence, where the ring of first fire burns away all but the resurrected, Spirit-filled ‘you'.

This is not a time for complacency. It's a season of seismic change, demanding complete surrender and yielding to the transformative power of God's first fire. Only then can we navigate these extraordinary times, standing firm in the face of the coming events.

It is going to be a good fire for God's people and a bad one for those who are not aligned with the Lord!

Divine Walls of Protection

Daniel 3:13-15 (NKJV)

“Then Nebuchadnezzar, in rage and fury, gave the command to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. So they brought these men before the king. Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying to them, ‘Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the gold image which I have set up? Now if you are ready at the time you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre, and psaltery, in symphony with all kinds of music, and you fall down and worship the image which I have made, good! But if you do not worship, you shall be cast immediately into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you from my hands?’”

Reflection:

The devil constantly throws a challenge at sons of God because he knows he cannot directly take hold of them. ( 1 Peter 5:8). He recognizes that the Lord’s protection covers His children. The devil's strategy is to lure believers out of their divine protection and into his zone of attack. This is akin to how Nebuchadnezzar challenged Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego to bow to his gods in order to force them out their protection into his stronghold of attack.

Believers are shielded in God's house of protection, with the devil only able to challenge from outside. (Ephesians 6:11) He attempts to entice us to step out of our preserve. Unable to breach our stronghold, the devil resorts to throwing stones at us. It is only the weak who attacks you by standing afar and throw stones at you. These stones come in the form of sickness, financial troubles, hopelessness, pain.etc Ephesians 6:11

To counter these attacks, Christians must build taller walls of protection through prayer. Prayer is the key to strengthening our defenses. Just as the devil threw a challenge at Job through his wife and friends to curse God and be free and endured stones of sickness and loss of properties and children, he remained steadfast in his faith. Job 2:9-10

Joseph also faced the devil's challenge and was thrown into prison. (Genesis 39:20-21) Even Jesus faced the devil’s tests. Despite these trials, they all emerged victorious.

Challenges and stones are part of the Christian battle. By building stronger walls of prayer, we can overcome these trials. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego did not succumb to Nebuchadnezzar's challenge and were saved from the fiery furnace by God.

Whatever stones the devil throws at you—whether they be trials, sickness, or despair—remember that God is with you. Just as He was with Joseph, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abed-Nego, and Jesus, He will protect you and ensure that the devil does not prevail

Stay strong in your faith and continue to build your walls of protection through prayer.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your divine protection and unending grace. As we face the challenges and trials of life, we ask for Your strength to uphold us and keep us within the safety of Your walls. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith, to build our spiritual defenses through prayer, and to trust in Your protection against every attack of the enemy. Empower us to overcome every trial, knowing that with You by our side, we are shielded and secure.

In Jesus’ name, we pray,

Amen.

Rexford Moses

Are You Living Your Name?

I asked my dad how he came up with my name, Rexford. He told me that while working on a ship, he met a white man who treated him with such kindness that he didn’t know how to repay him. So, when I was born, he named me Rexford, which means Reigning King, in honor of that man.

Growing up, I’ve always felt that my name has shaped my life. Wherever I go, I seem to be recognized and regarded as relevant, a reflection of the name I carry.

The Power of a Name

When choosing names for our children, we often expect the name to have a profound influence on their lives. Many times, we draw inspiration from family members or mentors we hold in high esteem. In my family, one of my uncles is so revered for his humility and devotion to God that many parents, even outside our family, have named their children after him.

Some people take their search for names even further, looking to presidents, pastors, kings, or influential entrepreneurs for inspiration. In the African context, it's common for parents to name their children after their own parents. However, this tradition can lead to tension when expectations are not met, sometimes causing strained relationships, and in extreme cases, even disownment. I know of a family where this very issue led to serious conflict.

Names and Their Meanings

In the Bible, names carried significant meaning, often reflecting a person’s destiny:

  • Abraham means “Father of many nations.”
  • Moses means “Drawn out.”
  • Jesus, a name central to Christianity, means “Yahweh saves” or “God saves.”

Names in biblical times were powerful indicators of a person’s role and purpose. A name not only provides personal identity, but it also holds emotional significance and impacts social interaction.

The Burden of Sinful Names

Before Jesus Christ came, humanity lived under the burden of sin. Sin was deeply ingrained in our identities, passed down through generations. This meant that bearing a name like Rexford implied a connection to this sinful lineage—sinful Rexford.

In those days, priests offered sacrifices—lambs, for instance—to appease God and seek forgiveness. At times, sinners faced severe consequences, such as the earth swallowing them or divine punishment, as seen in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.

The Redemption of Names

However, with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, everything changed. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus took away the sins of the world. Now, those of us with names like Rexford can bear them without the weight of sin. Forgiveness is available to anyone who confesses their sins and seeks redemption.

As 2 Corinthians 5:17 says: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This verse speaks of the transformative power of being in Christ. We undergo a spiritual rebirth, shedding our old sinful selves and embracing a new identity in Christ. We are no longer bound by the chains of sin but are renewed and redeemed by God’s grace. This transformation is so profound that we are given a new name—Christian. We can now be called Christlike Rexford or Christlike Kofi.

The name Jesus wasn’t randomly chosen; it was divinely given, signifying His mission to save humanity and reconcile us with God.

Living Up to Your Name

This resonates with the Pentecostal song: “Hw3 Wabrabo so yie, ne din dawoso”, which translates to “Be mindful of your lifestyle because His name is on you.” As Christians, we are called to live a life that reflects the character and teachings of Christ. When we live contrary to these principles, we undermine the credibility of our identity as Christians.

  • You can’t be a Christian and live like an unbeliever.
  • You can’t live under the notion that it’s “normal” to fornicate or commit adultery.
  • It’s not normal to have multiple women.
  • You can’t be part of those who manipulate figures, overstate invoices, or engage in corruption.
  • When the boys boast about their sexual conquests, you can’t be part of it.
  • You can’t be part of those who pocket office items or engage in unethical behavior.
  • When the girls head out to inappropriate parties, you can’t join in.

Your name matters. It carries weight, meaning, and responsibility. So, I ask: Are you living by your name?

Rexford Moses

Is God Your Favorite Episode? Drawing Near to Him (James 4:8)

Do you have an appointment with God, or do you only call on Him when it’s convenient? Is your prayer life unscheduled, your scripture reading sporadic? You reach out to God when you’re in need, but have you noticed He’s been calling you all along, while you remain too busy for Him? And yet, we spend endless hours flipping through social media, all the while rejecting any opportunity to meet with God. How can you expect Him to meet your needs when you constantly reject His call?

God desires our hearts. He wants us to have regular, consistent meetings with Him. He values those set times, placing them on His divine calendar, prepared to meet us when we show up. In those moments, He’s ready to respond to the prayers from our previous meetings. Think about how you prioritize your favorite TV show, sports match, or series—how you adjust your schedule just to make sure you don’t miss it, finding excuses to skip Sunday services while you never fall sick when those episodes are on air. I remember when I watched Joana la Virgen—it was a show I never wanted to miss. My heart was so glued to it that I would rush home from wherever I was just to catch every episode, or even find a place with electricity if there was a power outage. Today, I do the same with Chelsea’s EPL matches—I don’t want to miss a single one. What are you so addicted to that you can’t bear missing it, even going back to watch the replay? Let’s be honest—replays aren’t as thrilling because we already know the outcome.

This is the level of devotion God desires from us—the same energy and dedication we give to our favorite shows or activities. He wants us to schedule regular meetings with Him, setting aside specific times for prayer and devotion. In those moments, the Holy Spirit reviews the “minutes” of your last meeting, and Jesus executes the action plans on God’s behalf. They come prepared with revelations, blessings, and answers just for you. But if your meetings with God are inconsistent and haphazard—showing up one day and missing the next—then God may also respond to your needs sporadically, as if He, too, is working without an appointment.

God expects us to love Him with all our hearts, as Deuteronomy 6:4-5 says: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” When we give Him our full devotion, He draws nearer to us.

If your prayers are “as and when,” God will meet you “as and when.”
If your scripture reading is “as and when,” He’ll respond “as and when.”

Why can’t Christians have consistent, scheduled devotion like our Muslim brothers and sisters? Why do we only pray when we’re desperate, instead of making it a daily priority, like our favorite TV shows? Shouldn’t our time with God be like that telenovela we never want to miss? Even if we miss an episode, we rush to watch the replay before the next one. We avoid distractions when we’re glued to a football match; how frustrated we get when we miss a crucial moment and the replay isn’t shown! Just like how you call your boyfriend/girlfriend first thing in the morning or want to hear his/her voice before bed, God desires that kind of intentionality and devotion.

As James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” When we approach God with faithfulness and consistency, He responds with the same faithfulness, revealing His heart and fulfilling our needs.

Prayer:

Lord, help me prioritize time with You as eagerly as I do my favorite activities. Draw me closer and make our meetings a daily joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Real Word of God

In the book of Acts, The Bereans were described as being of more noble character than those in Thessalonica for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. They did not have the search tools we have today so they were really thorough, but this is not the same as just believing what is taught to you blindly. The Bereans were trouble but it is an attitude that we need today.
So let's examine what the Bible says about itself and see if we have believed our teachers ahead of what is actually written.

In John 1.1 it says
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

It is clear from this that the Word of God is Jesus You get into deep problems if you take this to mean the Bible. The Bible is not God, it did not create anything. If you make the Bible into a 4th representation of God, in addition to the Father, Son, and holy spirit. Then, I guess you'd be a quadratarian rather than a trinitarian,

In verse 14 it goes on to say that the word became flesh and dwelt among us.
The Bible did not become flesh and dwell among us. The Word is an important title for Jesus because it says so much about who he is.
So, clearly there are people who believe that this is referring to the Bible but it cannot be. So the question is are there other verses that some might think are about the Bible but are really about Jesus and what is at stake if we believe that. Try reading the Bible and each time you read the words Word or Word of God try asking the question is this referring to Jesus or to the Bible.

Luke refers to servants of the word, when referring to followers of Jesus
he goes on to say that the people gathered around him were listening to the word of God.

John says that the people he was speaking to were studying the scriptures diligently but the Word did not dwell in them which suggests that the Word is different to the scriptures. it also means that there was a difference to how the beareans examined the scriptures to how these people studied them.

In Ephesians 6.17 It states that we should take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit which is the word of God. If the Word of God is Jesus then he fights for us against the enemy, If the Bible is the sword of the spirit then we fight for ourselves with our knowledge and use of the scriptures, I know which one I'd prefer

In Hebrews 4.12, it says that the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double edged sword. Now we know that Jesus is living and active and sharper than any double edged sword but is that really true of the Bible. Without effecting it's importance or it's truth it is not living and active but Jesus certainly is.

In 1 Peter 1.23 Peter refers to the living and enduring word of God, again this is referring to Jesus.
In 2 Peter 3.5, Peter says that the heaven's came into being by God's word, we know from John 1 that Jesus was there, but the Bible was not there.

In Revelation 19.13 it says his name is the Word of God, He is not the Bible.

There are over a hundred references in the Old Testament to the word of God appearing to somebody or coming to somebody. This should not be surprising if he is living and active, if he was there in the beginning
you would expect him to appear in the Old Testament. He talked to the Pharisees about the scriptures referring to him but they couldn't find him.
These were the pharasees who loved the scriptures but they were the only people Jesus met who made him angry.

So what's at stake if we apply the characteristics of Jesus to the Bible.
I think we risk keeping people from the real Jesus, they have a relationship with a book and not with the real Word of God, and the letter kills but the spirit gives life. That's not to take away from the importance of the Bible because it tells us and teaches us about Jesus and we don't have anything else but we have to test everything by the word of God. If you test Jesus by the Bible he stands up because of every word written about him in both testaments. However, if you test the Bible by the word of God you risk finding the God of the Pharisees instead of Jesus himself. Perhaps we would not spend as much energy and time talking about things Jesus never spoke about. Perhaps we would be a better reflection of him and Perhaps that would draw more people to him

Genesis 15.1, 15.4
! Samuel 3, 15.10
2. Samuel 30-32, 24.11
1 Kings 6. 11, 13.1, 13.2, 13.5, 13.9, 13.17, 13.18, 13.20, 16.1, 16.7
17.2, 17.8, 18.1,18.31 19.9, 21.17, 21.28, 22.38,
2 Kings 3.12, 20.4,
1 Chronicles 17.3,
Psalms 18.30, 33.4, 33.6
Isiah 38.4,
jerimiah 1.2, 1.4, 1.11, 1.13, 2.1, 13.3, 13.8, 16.1, 18.5, 20.9
24.4, 25.1, 25.3, 28.12, 29.20, 32.6, 32.26, 33.1, 33.19, 33.23, 34.8,
34.12, 35.12, 36.27, 37.6, 39.15, 40.1, 42.7, 43.8,
Ezekiel 1.3, 3.16, 6.1, 7.1, 11.14, 12.1, 12.8, 12.17, 12.21, 12.26, 13.1,
14.2, 14.12, 15.1, 16.1, 17.1, 17.11, 18.1. 20.2, 20.45, 21.1, 21.8, 21.18,
22.1, 22.17, 22.23, 23.1, 24.1, 24.15, 24.20, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1, 28.11, 28.20, 29.1, 29.17, 30.1, 30.20, 31.1, 32.1, 32.17, 33.1, 33.2, 33.23, 34.1, 35.1, 36.16, 37.15, 38.1,
Jonah 1.1, 3.1,
Haggai 1.3, 2.1, 2.10, 2.20,
Zechariah 1.1, 1.7, 4.8, 6.9, 7.1, 7.4, 7.8, 8.1, 8.18,
Luke 3.2

Richard Collins

Science vs. Religion: Finding Harmony in a Disparate World

For centuries, the relationship between science and religion has been a topic of intense debate. Some see them as locked in an eternal struggle, with scientific discoveries constantly chipping away at the foundations of faith. Others believe they occupy separate domains – science concerned with the “how” of the universe and religion with the “why.”

Points of Contention: Where Science and Religion Clash

Historically, some of the most heated clashes have occurred when scientific explanations contradict literal interpretations of religious texts. The theory of evolution, for instance, challenges the creation stories found in many religions. Similarly, scientific advancements in areas like cosmology and geology can raise questions about the age of the earth or the origins of humanity, which may contradict some religious beliefs.

These clashes can lead to a sense of disillusionment for those who hold both scientific and religious views. It can feel like a choice must be made between reason and faith, a situation that can be deeply unsettling.

Finding Common Ground: Why Science and Religion Can Coexist

Despite these potential conflicts, there are compelling reasons to believe that science and religion can coexist peacefully, even complement each other. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Different Domains of Inquiry: As mentioned earlier, science and religion often address fundamentally different questions. Science seeks to understand the natural world through observation, experimentation, and evidence-based reasoning. Religion, on the other hand, focuses on questions of meaning, purpose, morality, and the existence of the divine. These are not inherently contradictory pursuits.

  • A Universe Full of Wonder: Scientific discoveries can inspire a sense of awe and wonder at the universe's complexity and beauty. This sense of wonder is often a cornerstone of religious experience as well.

  • Science as a Tool: Many religious individuals see science as a powerful tool for understanding God's creation. Scientific advancements have allowed us to care for the sick, protect the environment, and improve our quality of life. These advancements can be seen as expressions of humankind's capacity for good, a capacity some attribute to a divine source.

  • Faith as a Guide: Science can explain much about the universe, but it cannot answer all our questions. Religious faith can provide comfort, purpose, and a moral compass in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Reconciling Faith with Science: Approaches to Harmony

There are several approaches that individuals can take to reconcile their scientific and religious beliefs:

  • Non-Literal Interpretations: Many religious scholars advocate for non-literal interpretations of sacred texts, allowing for the incorporation of scientific discoveries.

  • Focus on the Core Message: Rather than getting hung up on specific details, some believers focus on the core ethical and spiritual messages of their religion.

  • Theology and Science: A growing field known as theology and science seeks to find common ground between religious and scientific perspectives.

The Importance of Open Dialogue

Ultimately, fostering open dialogue between science and religion is crucial. Scientists and religious leaders can work together to bridge the gap, promoting understanding and mutual respect. Individuals can also engage in their own exploration, reading about both science and religion and reflecting on how these two aspects of human experience can inform their worldview.

A Universe with Room for Both

Science and religion need not be seen as adversaries. They can be seen as complementary aspects of our human quest for understanding. Embracing the wonder of scientific discovery alongside the depth of religious faith allows for a richer and more meaningful experience of the world around us.

Alan Raju John

Lose the Battle, Win the War

Reflecting on the legendary battle at Thermopylae, where 300 Spartan soldiers faced insurmountable odds against the Persian army, one cannot help but admire their courage and sacrifice. Despite their eventual defeat, their actions paved the way for the ultimate victory of the Greek forces in the war against Persia.

The memory of the brave Spartans inspired the Greeks to persevere, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. This historical event teaches us a profound truth: sometimes losing a battle is a necessary step towards winning the war.

Dear readers, let us pause and contemplate the paradox of losing a battle. While it may seem counterintuitive, there is beauty in embracing defeat for the sake of a greater victory. As Apostle Grace Lubega eloquently preached, we must learn to lose battles to achieve the grander vision of winning the war.

Consider the everyday battles we face in life. A young man may win a trivial argument with an elder but lose the opportunity to honor and respect wisdom. Similarly, fleeting gains obtained through deceit or conflict often result in long-term losses of trust and integrity.

Imagine the joy of indulging in immediate pleasures, only to realize the cost of sacrificing long-term blessings. These stories serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the importance of discerning between temporary victories and enduring triumphs.

For instance, let's reflect on the scenario of a young man who carelessly argues with an elder over an issue in which he is technically correct. Yes, he may win the battle of the argument, but in doing so, he loses the deeper respect and wisdom that come from honoring one's elders. The principle of respecting elders, often touted in various cultures, is not merely about winning or losing arguments but about nurturing relationships and gaining invaluable insights for the future.

Similarly, consider the allure of immediate gratification at the expense of long-term consequences. Stealing a few coins from your boss might provide temporary financial relief, but it jeopardizes the trust and integrity crucial for sustained professional growth and advancement. In essence, the fleeting gains of the present can pale in comparison to the enduring losses of the future.

Furthermore, think about the dynamics of personal relationships. Insulting an adversary might offer a momentary sense of satisfaction, but it plants seeds of bitterness and resentment that can haunt us indefinitely. The power of words, whether used to uplift or tear down, carries lasting consequences that shape the course of our interactions and connections.

Even in seemingly trivial situations, the principle holds. Imagine the joy of indulging in a sumptuous meal on Christmas day, having slaughtered a cow for the occasion. However, in doing so, one sacrifices the milk and sustenance that the cow would have provided for the entire following year.

If you fought for ice cream with a young child, you'd get the ice cream with its sweetness and lose the Child with their love and trust.
These examples illustrate the trade-offs we face between immediate gratification and long-term sustainability in various aspects of life.

In conclusion, let us strive to adopt a perspective that transcends the momentary struggles and setbacks we encounter. By surrendering our desire for immediate gratification and trusting in the greater plan, we can truly lose the battle to win the war.

To delve deeper into this topic, I was inspired by a sermon preached by Apostle Grace Lubega of Phaneroo Ministries International at the 2018 annual Men's Conference themed “Eye Can See.” You can watch the sermon here.

Warm regards,

Bethwel Kiprono K.